Bahir Dar University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Bahir Dar University has 4 executives leading key functions including strategic leadership, external affairs, institutional governance, and peace advocacy.

Committed to academic excellence and regional development, Bahir Dar University fosters innovation through diverse research centers and comprehensive higher education programs designed to empower students and professionals across Ethiopia.

Leadership Roles at Bahir Dar University

  • Chief Executive Officer & Director, Nile & Leadership Academy Executive (Nela) - Yeshigeta Gelaw
  • President, Emsa Bahirdar Vices of External Affairs - Kefyalew Tesfaye
  • President - Firew Tegegn
  • President of Peace Forum - Hailemariam Nekatibeb
  • Yeshigeta Gelaw - Chief Executive Officer & Director, Nile & Leadership Academy Executive (Nela)

    Yeshigeta Gelaw, the Chief Executive Officer & Director, Nile & Leadership Academy Executive (Nela) at Bahir Dar University, directs high-level strategic initiatives and leadership development programs. Overseeing the Nile & Leadership Academy Executive, Gelaw architects specialized training frameworks that enhance professional competencies for regional stakeholders. This leadership role involves coordinating with academic departments to align institutional goals with broader educational mandates. By managing complex administrative workflows, the Chief Executive Officer & Director, Nile & Leadership Academy Executive (Nela) ensures the university maintains rigorous standards in scholarship and research. Yeshigeta Gelaw drives the expansion of continuing education opportunities, effectively bridging the gap between academic theory and practical application. Through consistent oversight of institutional resources, Gelaw secures the long-term viability of the academy, ultimately strengthening the university's reputation as a premier center for advanced learning and professional growth within the East African landscape.

    Kefyalew Tesfaye - President, Emsa Bahirdar Vices of External Affairs

    Kefyalew Tesfaye, the President, Emsa Bahirdar Vices of External Affairs at Bahir Dar University, manages international partnerships and cross-institutional collaborations. Overseeing external relations, the President, Emsa Bahirdar Vices of External Affairs coordinates outreach efforts that connect the university with global academic networks and professional organizations. This leadership role involves negotiating agreements that facilitate student exchanges and joint research ventures. By cultivating relationships with external stakeholders, Kefyalew Tesfaye expands the university's influence across the broader African continent. The President, Emsa Bahirdar Vices of External Affairs ensures that external communication strategies align with the core mission of providing high-quality education. Through meticulous management of external affairs, Tesfaye drives the development of sustainable funding models and collaborative projects. Ultimately, the President, Emsa Bahirdar Vices of External Affairs secures vital resources that support the university's diverse colleges and institutes, ensuring continued growth and academic relevance in a competitive global environment.

    Firew Tegegn - President

    Firew Tegegn, the President at Bahir Dar University, oversees the entire academic and administrative infrastructure of the institution. Directing the university's core mission, the President manages the integration of technology, health sciences, and business programs across all colleges. This leadership role involves setting the strategic vision for research centers and libraries to ensure academic excellence. By supervising the executive team, Firew Tegegn maintains operational efficiency and institutional integrity. The President drives initiatives that improve student outcomes and professional development opportunities. Through constant engagement with the Board and faculty, Tegegn ensures that the university remains a cornerstone of higher education in Ethiopia. The President also monitors the performance of various institutes, ensuring that academic standards meet national requirements. Ultimately, Firew Tegegn shapes the long-term trajectory of the university, fostering an environment where scholarship and innovation thrive to meet the evolving needs of the regional workforce and the broader academic community.

    Hailemariam Nekatibeb - President of Peace Forum

    Hailemariam Nekatibeb, the President of Peace Forum at Bahir Dar University, leads initiatives focused on conflict resolution, social cohesion, and regional stability. Overseeing the Peace Forum, the President of Peace Forum architects programs that promote dialogue and understanding among diverse student populations and community members. This leadership role involves organizing academic seminars and workshops that address critical societal issues. By facilitating collaborative research on peace-building, Hailemariam Nekatibeb integrates social responsibility into the university's educational framework. The President of Peace Forum ensures that the institution contributes positively to the stability of the surrounding region. Through strategic outreach, Nekatibeb drives engagement with local and national leaders to foster a culture of peace. The President of Peace Forum manages the forum's resources to maximize impact, ensuring that the university remains a neutral and constructive space for intellectual discourse. Ultimately, the President of Peace Forum secures the university's role as a vital contributor to regional harmony and social development.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Bahir Dar University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Bahir Dar University?
    Bahir Dar University is led by Yeshigeta Gelaw (Chief Executive Officer & Director, Nile & Leadership Academy Executive (Nela)), along with executives such as Kefyalew Tesfaye (President, Emsa Bahirdar Vices of External Affairs) and Firew Tegegn (President).
    Who is part of Bahir Dar University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Bahir Dar University includes leaders such as Yeshigeta Gelaw (Chief Executive Officer & Director, Nile & Leadership Academy Executive (Nela)), Kefyalew Tesfaye (President, Emsa Bahirdar Vices of External Affairs), Firew Tegegn (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Bahir Dar University have?
    Bahir Dar University has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Bahir Dar University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Bahir Dar University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer & Director, Nile & Leadership Academy Executive (Nela), President, Emsa Bahirdar Vices of External Affairs, President, President of Peace Forum.